배뇨장애와 우울증과의 연관성

Abstract

Depressive disorders have an overall incidence of 2-15%, and are among the most common mental illnesses. Depression is currently considered to be the fourth leading cause of premature death or disability, and it is expected to become the second leading cause of disease burden by 2020. It is closely related with the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases. Recently, some studies have shown the correlation of depressive disorders with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by benign prostatic hypertrophy, overactive bladder and other urological diseases. It is still unknown exactly what mechanism is the link between concomitant depression and LUTS, however differences in levels of antidiuretic hormone, inflammatory cytokines, phosphodiesterase isoenzyme and serotonin have been identified in patients suffering from depressive symptoms with LUTS. Numerous cross sectional studies and prospective cohort epidemiological investigations performed around the world have failed to demonstrate a clear causative mechanism for the relationship due to various limitations. Concomitant depression with LUTS creates a vicious cycle of suffering that significantly lowers the quality of life for patients. Further research is warranted to prevent progression of disease and improve the clinical outcome for patients with LUTS and associated depressive disorder.